Doubts about your studies? You’re not alone! Every fifth student finishes their degree in a different program of study than the one they started out in.

It’s important to actively address your doubts. Whether it’s a change of subject, a different university, or starting into vocational training – striking out on a new path often leads to more contentment in life. We can help you consider your options and make your decision.

This page presents information on what to do if you’re having doubts about your studies and lists contact points for you.

There can be many reasons for doubts – and just as many ways to develop a new perspective. That’s why JGU’s Student Advisory Center, in cooperation with the German Federal Employment Agency (Agentur für Arbeit), has developed a special advising concept for students with doubts about their studies. Let’s explore your options together and find a new perspective.

Are you ready to address your doubts? Make an appointment for a first consultation online or by calling the hotline (see phone number and service hours in the contact box below).

You are certain you want to study, but your current program of study isn’t living up to your expectations? You can get confidential and open-ended advice on your options for a change of subject or a transfer between universities in an advising session with the Student Advisory Center.

Were you expecting something else from the general conditions in Mainz or your subject’s particular focus at JGU? Are you realizing that studying at university isn’t what you want? Do you want more practical and less theoretical training? At JGU, several different offices can help you make your decision:

If you do not want to pursue a university degree, you have a variety of options – depending on the professional field, you can look into working at a company or attending a full-time vocational school / university of cooperative education.

Or are you running the risk of not being able to complete your degree course (in time) due to repeat examinations and final attempts, thereby losing the eligibility to take exams in your subject? Or have you lost touch with your degree course due to longer breaks and graduation seems a long way off?

Are you unsure if you can continue studying due to outside circumstances such as financial strain or familial responsibilities? First of all, check to see if there are any opportunities for support that can help you improve your situation and graduate after all. If you still need to take a leave of absence or withdraw from your program of study, it is a good idea to schedule an advising session with the Student Advisory Center.

Many students earn their own living and are dependent on employment or other sources of income to finance their studies. If it becomes increasingly difficult or even impossible for you to finance your studies, check to see whether one or more of the following options works for you:

  • right to BAFöG (under the Federal Training Assistance Act)
  • one of the many available scholarships
  • leave of absence to earn money
  • taking out a (KfW) student loan on favorable terms
  • graduation loans (Studierendenwerk Mainz)
  • relief fund for financial hardships through no fault of your own (Studierendenwerk Mainz)

It can be a challenge to stay on track with your studies if you also have to care for children or other relatives. If you encounter any problems, please feel free to make an appointment with JGU´s Family Services Center.

The Center gives advice on support offers and other options, including maternity leave, parental leave, leaves of absence, and hardship applications.

If you have any doubts about continuing your studies, the Student Advisory Center can advise you on your options. The advisors can also assist you in finding a program of study.

Not sure what subject suits you? Don’t know what your chance of securing a place at the university is? Or just can’t decide what comes next?

Call the hotline below to make an appointment with the Student Advisory Center. They can advise you in all study-related matters.
The advisors will be happy to help you in person, by phone, or online with the following:

  • Choice of degree & subject combination
  • Change of subject
  • Overcoming doubts & decision-making guidance
  • Application strategies
  • Career orientation during your studies
  • And much more …

Call the hotline to make an appointment!

The Career Service is the central point of contact at JGU when it comes to career orientation!

The Career Service team supports students in their transition from university to professional life with a comprehensive range of events and is on hand to help you develop a career plan tailored to your needs and desires. They also offer support during your application process.

The advisors will be happy to support you personally on site or online with the following:

  • Advice & coaching on career planning
  • Career orientation events & workshops
  • Job application training
  • Contact forums for students and companies

Book an appointment now!